Chemically induced skin tumors arise from long-lived stem cells of the upper hair follicle

Scientists have discovered that chemically induced skin tumors originate from a specific type of long-lived stem cells located in the upper portion of hair follicles. These stem cells have the capacity for long-term survival in tissue. The research was published in the journal Science in August 2026, Volume 393, Issue 6811. The finding indicates that certain skin cells have increased susceptibility to transformation into tumor cells when exposed to chemical substances. These long-lived stem cells are likely responsible for initiating the tumor formation process. Understanding the origin of tumors may contribute to the development of new preventive and therapeutic strategies.